Nonprofits Islamic Relief USA and Muslim American Society New York are partnering with the Office of NYC Comptroller to hand out free iftar meals to Brooklyn residents in need.
Called “Iftar On The Go”, the newly-announced event will distribute numerous zero-cost halal meals at Brooklyn’s Muslim American Society Youth Center over the course of four evenings in March and April, served on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Iftar is the Arabic name of the meal that breaks the daily Ramadan fast.
New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and Islamic Relief USA CEO Sharif Aly both say that the purpose of the "Iftar On The Go" event is to help aid Muslim New Yorkers during Ramadan by providing access to suitable meals amidst a time when food insecurity is a prevalent issue in NYC.
“Communities in need should not have to worry where their next meal is coming from. Ensuring Muslim New Yorkers have access to culturally appropriate food this Ramadan is crucial for addressing food insecurity ...” said Comptroller Brad Lander.
"Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims around the world to strengthen their connection to their Creator and their empathy toward others. Islamic Relief USA is honored to join the New York City Comptroller Brad Lander’s Office again this year to help meet the growing needs of the community during a time of significant economic hardship," said Aly.
"As we witness inflation continue to rise, reduction in SNAP benefits, and a failure to increase the federal minimum wage in over 10 years, it is imperative that we take bold steps to ensure our neighbors are able to maintain a dignified quality of life,"
The fast-breaking meal distribution event is set to take place at 1933 Bath Ave. on March 26, April 2, April 9, and April 16, beginning at 6:00pm each day.
